Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner, Chanchal Rana, on Monday said the city is fully prepared to tackle the impact of cyclone ‘Montha,’ which is likely to affect Odisha’s south coast.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Khordha district, which includes the state capital, has been placed under a yellow warning. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected at isolated places, with surface wind speeds reaching 50–60 kmph and gusts up to 70 kmph.
“Urban flooding, road blockages due to fallen trees, and power outages in residential areas are possible. To ensure safety, detailed preparations have been made, and the BMC control room is operational,” said BMC Commissioner Chanchal Rana while speaking to the media.
Joint teams from BMC, Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), IDCO, Public Works Department (PWD), Odisha Forest Development Corporation Ltd. (OFDC), and TP Central Odisha Distribution Limited (TPCODL) have been mobilised for tree cutting, city cleaning, and clearing drains to prevent waterlogging. Drainage and fire teams have been pre-positioned, with sufficient vehicles, machinery, and fuel on standby.
Residents are advised to contact local corporators or the BMC helpline at 1929 in case of emergencies. Shelters, including BMC Kalyan Mandap, BDA facilities, and schools, are ready with drinking water facilities.
“We are fully prepared for any eventuality,” Commissioner Rana assured while addressing the media.
